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licania alba
Also known as: []
Overview
A tropical tree species native to Central and South America, known for its woody structure and ecological significance.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Chrysobalanaceae |
| Genus: | Licania |
| Botanical Name: | Licania alba |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape; light pruning can be done anytime.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning in winter.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Use sheer curtains to filter intense light; rotate plant for even exposure; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use raised beds for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable conditions, avoiding extremes.
Protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth
Avoid overfertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply to moist soil to avoid root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or cactus mix with added rooting hormone.
Hormone
Recommended to promote faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune selectively, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings, clean up afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose right pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may yellow or drop; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute properly, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLicania alba is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented reports of toxicity in felines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicLicania alba is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicLicania alba is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has not been documented to cause adverse effects through ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Licania alba suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree species best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: Does Licania alba produce edible fruits?
A: Unknown, further research is needed.
Q: How fast does Licania alba grow?
A: It has moderate growth rates typical of tropical trees.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Chrysobalanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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